MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – Trade between Russia and Oman experienced a dramatic increase, soaring 22 times to reach $1.5 billion during the first seven months of 2026, according to Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of Russia’s Security Council. Shoigu noted that this figure is the highest in the past decade. These comments were made on October 20 during a meeting in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. The two nations had previously targeted $1 billion in trade by 2027.
Shoigu emphasized that both sides have ample opportunity to capitalize on this momentum and set new trade records. He also indicated that Moscow intends to strengthen cooperation with Muscat in areas of shared interest and to implement agreements reached at the highest level. The Security Council’s press service described the discussions as interagency consultations, with the last round held in Muscat in November 2025.
According to TASS, a roadmap for enhancing bilateral security cooperation from 2026 to 2028 is expected to be signed during the Moscow talks. This document was drafted by the offices of the two security councils following the Muscat meeting. Shoigu additionally stated that Russia and Oman plan to establish military attaché offices at their respective embassies in Muscat and Moscow in the near future, though no specific opening dates were provided.
Beyond Hydrocarbons, Trade Flourishes
Trade growth between the two nations started earlier in the decade. Russia’s Pivot to Asia, a business publication, reports that bilateral trade increased by 62.3% from 2020 to 2024, citing Shoigu’s remarks. The scope of trade now includes agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food commodities. Russian investments in Omani energy, logistics, and food security projects have further propelled this expansion. These figures contribute to a broader surge in Russia’s non-resource exports this year.
The publication also noted that Russia initiated its first sizable shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman in 2025. Oman’s domestic poultry consumption is expected to reach 102,000 tonnes in 2026, with Russian meat and poultry producers aiming to expand their market presence. Oman is also seeking greater food self-sufficiency under its Oman Vision 2040 development plan. Institutions like the Joint Economic Commission and the Oman-Russia Business Council continue to support economic collaboration.
Oman Positioned as a Strategic Southern Transit Hub
Russia considers Oman a promising southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor, which links Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, and markets in the Gulf and East Africa. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin previously highlighted Oman’s advantageous port development prospects, stating that connections between Russian and Omani ports are highly promising for the route. The corridor also features prominently in Russia’s trade plans with India.
Tourism also plays an increasing role in bilateral relations. In 2025, Russian tourist arrivals to Oman surged by 87%, totaling an estimated 80,000 visitors. Both countries maintain a mutual visa-free regime, facilitating travel. Additionally, a growing number of Russian companies are establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by the country’s special economic zones and ports at Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat, further strengthening economic ties.